Look To The Stars News: Jane Seymour

Somaly Mam Foundation To Host Star-Studded Charity Event Tonight

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:39:00 -0000

The second annual Evening of Hope and Dreams to benefit the Somaly Mam Foundation will be held in Los Angeles tonight, September 29.

The evening, featuring a special live performance by American Idol’s Kara DioGuardi and inspirational words from Somaly Mam, will raise funds and awareness for the Foundation’s Survivor Services, Advocacy and Awareness programs, and recognize leadership in anti-trafficking. SMF will honor entrepreneurs and activists Jeff & Mei Sze Greene with the Voices for Change Award for their commitment to the cause of human trafficking and their special contribution to helping the Somaly Mam Foundation grow into the organization it is today.

The guest list for the event, to be held at the home of Jeff and Mei Sze Greene in Beverly Hills, includes Bill Maher, Daryl Hannah, Lisa Ling, Jane Seymour, Ron Livingston, Sarah Larson, Donald Faison and many more.

Somaly Mam established the SMF in 2007. At 12 years of age, Mam was sold into sexual slavery by a man who posed as her grandfather. In 1993, after over a decade of rape and torture, she escaped and fled Cambodia. In 1996, she went back. There she created a non-profit organization called AFESIP (Agir pour les Femmes en Situation Precaire or Acting for Women in Distressing Circumstances) to work with local law enforcement to raid brothels and reintegrate trafficked women into society. To this day, despite threats and assaults from traffickers looking to deter her work, Mam continues to fight so that others might be spared the fate she once endured. She has successfully helped more than 4,000 women and children escape the brothels.

To find out more, visit www.somaly.org.

Susan Sarandon To Be Honored By Somaly Mam Foundation

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:30:00 -0000

The Somaly Mam Foundation (SMF), dedicated to ending slavery around the world, is pleased to announce two benefit events marking their second year in both New York and Los Angeles.

In New York City, the 2nd annual An Evening of Hopes and Dreams dinner will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2009 at 583 Park Avenue. In Los Angeles, the 2nd annual An Evening of Hopes and Dreams gala will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at the home of Jeff and Mei Sze Greene in Beverly Hills, CA. American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi will headline a special live performance at the Los Angeles event.

Both evenings, featuring live musical entertainment, an auction and inspirational words from human trafficking survivor and leading activist Somaly Mam, will raise funds and awareness for SMF’s Survivor Services, Advocacy and Awareness programs, and recognize leadership in anti-trafficking. SMF will honor actress and activist Susan Sarandon in New York, and entrepreneurs and activists Jeff & Mei Sze Greene in Los Angeles, for their commitment to the cause of human trafficking and their special contribution to helping the Somaly Mam Foundation grow into the organization it is today.

The 2009 Honorary Committee includes Susan Sarandon, Sally Field, Daryl Hannah, Petra Nemcova, Maria Bello, Jane Seymour, Kristen Bell, Laurie Holden and Ron Livingston.

“I’ve committed my life to fighting this horrible scourge on humanity,” says Somaly Mam. “Seeing innocent young women and children whose lives have been forever scarred leaves no doubt that they need a champion who is willing to invest all their time and energy towards eradicating the shameful practice of human trafficking. Susan, Jeff and Mei Sze join me in this fight of great consequence and I thank them for their help.”

Honoree Susan Sarandon adds, “Human trafficking is a vicious crime that claims so many innocent victims each year. To see young innocent children forced into a life of sexual slavery is something that is so profoundly sad that one cannot help but want to do everything in their power to put an end to this crime that is so easily ignored. I have been personally inspired by the work of Somaly Mam.”

Hosting the gala for the 2nd consecutive year, honoree Jeff Greene says, “Mei Sze and I feel honored to be hosting the Somaly Mam Foundation benefit again this year. We have the utmost respect for Somaly and her work. We are a proud to be involved in such an important cause.”

Jane Seymour To Host Charity Weekend

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:30:00 -0000

On October 3rd and 4th, Jane Seymour will welcome celebrities and guests from around the world in Sedona, Arizona, to help make a difference in the lives of children with serious and life threatening illnesses at the “Tee It Up For Children’s Laughter” Charity Weekend.

All proceeds from the charity event will benefit Camp Soaring Eagle. Camp Soaring Eagle is working to be the next member of the internationally acclaimed Hole in the Wall Gang Camps, which were created as a result of the vision and hard work of the late Paul Newman.

Celebrity Guests Include:

Jane Seymour, an Emmy and Golden Globe award winning actress, author and artist, and her husband, Golden Globe award winning producer James Keach, will be official hosts for the entire event.
Steve Young, the highest rated quarterback in NFL history and the founder of the Forever Young Foundation, will be a special guest.
Comedian Roy Firestone will keep the laughter rolling as the entertainer at the Wine Maker Dinner.
LPGA professional Jan Stephenson will provide golf lessons and will play in the golf tournaments with the guests.

The weekend will take place at the exclusive Club at Seven Canyons in Sedona, which was described by Golfweek Magazine as the “IMAX of Golf.” Guests will be treated to a Wine Maker Dinner under the stars with live entertainment from Roy Firestone and special guest Steve Young. The weekend’s activities include golf lessons, a golf skills tournament, a scramble golf tournament, fine dining and world-class entertainment.

At the Wine Maker Dinner on Saturday, October 3rd, guests will have the opportunity to bid on priceless experiences and rare items during the live and silent auctions. Some of the auction items include the opportunity to include Jane Seymour or James Keach in their foursome for the “Tee It Up For Children’s Laughter” Golf Tournament taking place the following day, Sunday, October 4th. Bidders also will be able to raise their paddles for a private dinner party at the personal residence of Jane Seymour and James Keach.

Tickets to the entire weekend event are $5000 per person, and tickets to the Wine Maker Dinner only on Saturday are $500 per person. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 928-284-9393.

Camp Soaring Eagle, currently under construction in Sedona, Arizona, is a camp for children with serious illnesses who due to their condition are unable to attend traditional camps. Camp Soaring Eagle when complete will be the only year-round, dedicated medically-based camping facility in the state of Arizona. Camp Soaring Eagle will be able to adapt its medical facility to welcome various illness groups each week, and Camp Soaring Eagle will be completely free of charge to the campers and their families.

A personal video invitation from Jane Seymour can be found here.

American Red Cross Announces Celebrity Cabinet

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:00:00 -0000

The American Red Cross is pleased to announce five new additions to its National Celebrity Cabinet, a group of celebrity supporters who promote Red Cross services by donating their time, helping neighbors prepare for emergencies, responding to disasters and lending a helping hand to those in need.

New members to the American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet include country singer and professional ballroom dancer Julianne Hough, Tony Award-winner and actress Anika Noni Rose, who lends her voice to the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated comedy adventure “The Princess and the Frog” and appears in the HBO/Anthony Minghella television drama series,“#1 Ladies’ Detective Agency”, Hollywood Records artist and Disney Channel star Demi Lovato, who is supporting disaster relief via a Text 2 Help campaign throughout her summer tour, actress Sally Pressman from Lifetime’s “Army Wives” who will be supporting Red Cross Services to the Armed Forces, and actress Amanda Peet.

Peet has already made a personal commitment to support the Red Cross Measles Initiative. “As a mom, I feel privileged to support the American Red Cross in their efforts to vaccinate millions of children around the world through the Measles Initiative, a partnership committed to reducing measles deaths globally. I commend the American Red Cross for tackling this global health problem in developing countries, where measles remains a leading cause of death, despite the availability of a safe, effective and inexpensive vaccine. I am passionate about this cause and look forward partnering with the American Red Cross to ensure children worldwide have this life-saving opportunity.”

“The American Red Cross runs on the valuable service of volunteers to fulfill our mission, and we are grateful that these celebrities are setting an example by volunteering their time and talents to help raise awareness of our work in responding to disasters, providing blood, helping military members and their families and promoting preparedness through first aid or CPR classes,” states Gail McGovern, President and CEO of American Red Cross.

The announcement of these celebrity supporters closely follows First Lady Michelle Obama’s official launch of the United We Serve initiative, a call for nationwide service to begin a sustained, collaborative and focused effort to meet community needs. The initiative spans throughout the summer and will culminate with a National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11. During this time, the Red Cross will promote volunteer opportunities throughout its network of more than 700 chapters to help encourage community service.

“I am honored to be a part of the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet and help support an organization that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war and aid to victims of devastating natural disasters. Being part of this amazing organization will provide me with an opportunity to join its efforts to help others and encourage the American public to become involved with their local Red Cross and make a difference,” said Julianne Hough.

The Red Cross benefits from the involvement of public figures and celebrities dating back to World War I. Over the years, actors, artists, and sports figures committing their time and talents to the organization have played an important role in raising public awareness of Red Cross services nationwide.

This group of newcomers joins the National Celebrity Cabinet that also includes Greg Biffle, Pierce Brosnan, Jackie Chan, Chayanne, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Ray Cyrus, Sara Evans, George Foreman, Leeza Gibbons, Amy Grant, Pat Green, Marcia Gay Harden, Dwayne Johnson, Heidi Klum, Patti LaBelle, Peyton and Eli Manning, Marlee Matlin, Dr. Phil McGraw, “Access Hollywood’s” Nancy O’Dell, Masi Oka, Rascal Flatts, Raven Symone, Elisabeth Rohm, Jane Seymour, Jimmy Smits, and Daddy Yankee.

The Red Cross is honored to have Sherry Lansing, former chairman and CEO, Motion Picture Group, Paramount Pictures and former member of the Red Cross Board of Governors, to serve as National Celebrity Cabinet Chair.

Please visit www.redcross.org/celebritycabinet/ to learn more about the Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet.

David Carradine's Food 4 Africa Legacy

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Linda St Cyr

David Carradine, star of the television show Kung Fu and a plethora of films, passed away on June 3rd, 2009, aged 72 years old.

A funeral service took place on Saturday June 13 for the beloved late celebrity. Many other stars came out to show their respect for a man who made a name for himself doling out words of wisdom as Kwai Chang Caine on the television series Kung Fu. Among the celebrities in attendance were Jane Seymour, Rob Schneider, Lucy Liu, Tom Selleck, Daryl Hannah and many others.

The sky was gloomy as the white hearse which carried David Carradine’s body delivered the actor to his final resting place.

Carradine was known for his work on television, in movies and also for his support in all aspects of art and entertainment. He was a friend and patron to Food 4 Africa, a charity organization that seeks to give children one vitamin and mineral enriched meal a day while also teaching their caregivers about the importance of nutrition. Donations to the charity can be made here.

The circumstances surrounding his death are still being investigated.

Mr. Carradine will be missed by many because he was a star off stage as well as on. We here at Look to the Stars send the family of David Carradine our deepest sympathies and condolences during their time of bereavement.

LTTS Exclusive: Inside A Night To Make A Difference with Host Michelle Vink

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Michelle Vink

Look To The Stars’ lead host, Michelle Vink was on hand as a host of Leeza Gibbons’ A Night To Make A Difference Fundraiser on Oscar night. Read her story below:

“Without hope, life is just not worth living”…

Those were the words from Harvey Milk from the Oscar-winning movie, Milk. Despite the uncertain state of the economy and the lack of faith we keep hearing about on the news, there was an overwhelming resurgence of hopeful optimism at the Oscars this year. Winning storylines like Slumdog Millionaire and Milk captured that very essence.

A new type of Oscar party

I recall reading that Slumdog director Danny Boyle placed the money to be paid to the 3 lead child actors in a trust until they complete grade school, and that the production company set up a driver to take the kids to school every day until they are 16 years old. When the movie was nominated for an Oscar alongside all the Milk nominations, I knew it would be a good year.

Soon after that I learned of a new type of Oscar party that Leeza Gibbons was coordinating, called A Night to Make A Difference. The timing was impeccable, and before I knew it I was invited to help host the event.

Michelle with Leeza and co-host, Russell.

Celebrity organisers with special causes

Leeza wanted to “take the global stage of Oscar Night and use it to put the focus on advocacy, philanthropy and volunteerism.” With a team of volunteers and a production team fueled with the same passion, Leeza did just that. Helped by Olivia Newton-John, music legend David Foster, and several co-hosts, the team created “A Party with a Purpose.” This monumental event not only benefited Leeza Gibbons’ Memory Foundation and the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre, but also raised awareness for philanthropy and inspired a feeling of hope. This inaugural event was streamed live here on LooktotheStars.org, and on other sites including Variety.com , LeezaGibbonsOscarEvent.com, Glam.com and ExtraTV.com.

With the aid of Jessica Biel and her Make The Difference Network, an opportunity was created for viewers to donate to the cause or just open the door for people to get involved in a charity that is close to their own hearts. Check out MTDN.com for more information on Jessica’s charity.

Jessica Biel – photo by Levi Walker

An all-star cast of celebrity givers

Celebrities who came out to support this event and celebrate Hollywood’s big heart included Laila Ali (who uses her celebrity to get kids excited about physical fitness), Mel B., Jessica Biel, Wilson Cruz, Hilary Duff, Teri Hatcher, Tony Hawk, Paris Hilton, Slash & Perla Hudson (who donated a guitar to the auction), Kym Johnson, Mario Lopez, Melissa Gilbert, Jane Seymour & James Keach, Cindy Margolis, Terrell Owens, Holly Robinson-Peete, Suzanne Somers, Dee Wallace, Forest & Keisha Whitaker and many, many others. I was honored to interview Wilson Cruz (He’s Just Not That Into You) immediately following Dustin Lance Black’s win for Milk and I was moved by his passionate desire for change.

Michelle talks to Teri Hatcher during the event.

A responsibility to help

Rex Lee said of using his celebrity status for good, “For whatever reason, people out in the world pay attention to us, and if I say I support Olivia Newton John and building a new cancer center out in Australia, people listen. There is a responsibily in that.”

Michael Buble expressed his feelings on helping others, too, saying, “I think most people hopefully have compassion and empathy. We’ve been blessed, and we should help.”

Michael Buble and Paris Hilton – photo by Levi Walker

Manuela Testolini, founder of In A Perfect World, talked about giving back, saying, “It’s mutually beneficial. The thing that unites us despite our circumstances is the desire to create better world.”

Making a difference with makeovers

Another special touch to the event was the five women that were “hired” as extras from the LA Women’s Shelter. Celebrity hairdresser Ken Paves supervised red carpet makeovers for these women, providing hair, makeup and wardrobe. Shoes were donated by Jessica Simpson. The women were given life coaching lessons and a boost of confidence to help them show others that change is possible, that we can always reinvent ourselves (just like Madonna), and that there is always room for a second chance.

“Help other people”

While on the red carpet, Jane Seymour said, “It’s not just the Oscars, but giving back and helping other people. It’s about what you can do to help other people right now. The more we help other people, the better it will be for all of us. My mum always used to say to me, ‘When life is tough, go out and help other people’ […] Every single person on this planet can make a difference – it’s just an act of kindness.”

David Foster and Jane Seymour – photo by Levi Walker

So despite what we have been hearing on the news, it looks like there are a few of us out there that still believe in hope. Thank you, Leeza — it truly was a party with a purpose.

Black Eyed Peas Honored At Charity Oscar Event

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Charity organization Children Uniting Nations (C.U.N.) celebrated their 10th anniversary viewing of the Academy Awards at the Beverly Hilton on Sunday, February 22nd.

The night was jam packed with celebrities who united in support of foster children across the nation. The event was presented by The Hollywood Reporter, Swaggmedia.com and 93.5FM The Beat radio station, which was broadcasting live all night long.

The red carpet shined with celebrity attendees including Lauren Conrad, DJ AM, Taboo (from The Black Eyed Peas), Billy Baldwin, Lil’ Mama, Jane Seymour, Oscar Nunez, and more, all dressed in their Oscar best. The night included high energy performances form the Jabbawockeez, Colby O’Donis, Teairra Mari, Doug E. Fresh, Spinderella, Sophie B. Hawkins and the music stylings of DJ AM.

It was a night for everyone including actors, musicians, politicians, philanthropists and even world famous poker players. Jamie Gold, Winner of the World Series of Poker, donated his time and talent after forfeiting the chance to win $7 million in the LA Classic, to raise money and awareness for the charity by organizing a celebrity poker tournament and an incredible prize package that included a seat in the next World Series of Poker and provided coaching by Gold.

Founder Daphna Ziman commented on the evening, “It was amazing to me how much support we were given this year from celebrities, performers and attendees that genuinely want to help our children in need. I am so very thankful of all those who support Children Uniting Nations and the children we serve.”

C.U.N. also recognized their own award winners on Academy night, focusing on those who have given their time to work within the community. The Spirit of Life Award was presented to The Black Eyed Peas while other special honorees include Speaker of the Assembly Karen Bass and philanthropist Cathleen Shera for their work in the community.

Swaggmedia.com streamed the night and its performers live on the internet while 93.5FM The Beat broadcasted their show live with interviews and highlights of the night.

Look To The Stars Exclusive: Live Stream Of Leeza Gibbons' Night To Make A Difference

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Look To The Stars is proud to be involved in one of Hollywood’s premier charity Oscar parties this weekend. Leeza Gibbons’ A Night To Make A Difference will take place on Sunday, February 22, at the iconic Mr Chow in Beverly Hills, with a host of celebrities expected to attend. And Look To The Stars is streaming the event LIVE.

This unique event will bring together stars from film, TV, music, sports and fashion to celebrate the worlds of celebrity and charity. Special Ambassadors of Change who have used their celebrity to make a tangible difference in the world will be on hand to empower the audience to make a difference in their own lives.

Hosted by Leeza Gibbons, Olivia Newton-John and David Foster, the Night To Make A Difference will attract stars such as Paris Hilton, Jessica Biel, Forest Whitaker, Slash, Alan Thicke, Ashley Tisdale, Brooke Burns, Cheryl Burke, Cheryl Ladd, Chevy Chase, Danny Boyle, Darryl McDaniels, Dee Wallace, Hilary Duff, Holly Robinson-Peete, Jaclyn Smith, Jane Seymour, Joey Fatone, Jordin Sparks, Ken Paves, Mario Lopez, Mel B., Melissa Gilbert, Rick Schroder, Suzanne Somers, Taraji P. Henson, Teri Hatcher, Tony Hawk and many more.

“The Night To Make a Difference party is to benefit the [”Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation":http://www.looktothestars.org/charity/402-leezas-place] and my own Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Center," Olivia Newton-John told Look To The Stars. “But now it has morphed into a bigger night than just our two charities – it’s about everybody’s philanthropy and giving back. It’s a new era in America with the new Obama presidency, and it’s all about giving back, so we decided to make the night an evening about celebrity giving – like the theme of Look To The Stars.”

Other charities to be involved with the event are Jessica Biel’s Make The Difference Network, the Felix Organization, the Children’s Hospice & Palliative Care Coalition, Cancer Schmancer Movement, Blessings in a Backpack, the Red Cross, TreePeople, the Tony Hawk Foundation, the David Foster Foundation, Smiles For Life, The HollyRod Foundation and many more.

“This event is truly different from the others and one of the aspects I am most excited about is the ability for viewers at home to be a part of the experience via the live webcast,” said Leeza Gibbons. “With Arquiva and Highwinds handling the technical wizardry, we are able to focus on our message of advocacy and philanthropy. Our hope is to inspire people at home and around the world to take action and knowing that we are able to reach a broad audience on the web means we truly have a chance to help create the change presented by our on-camera Hollywood celebrities. I think it’s what happens when Hollywood stars converge with technical stars like Arquiva and Highwinds. Our combination of being behind the scenes of movie’s most glamorous night along wtih it’s most passionate and purposeful stars takes the gold for best new web idea!”

The event kicks off at 4pm in Beverly Hills with Red Carpet arrivals. For more information and tickets, visit the official Night To Make A Difference website. And be sure to visit Look To The Stars’ special live stream of the event on Oscars night.

Leeza Gibbons And Olivia Newton-John Present A Night To Make A Difference

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Look To The Stars is proud to be a sponsor of an exciting event that is set to take Oscar night by storm. Leeza Gibbons, Olivia Newton-John and David Foster are bringing together a host of celebrities for A Night to Make a Difference to focus on advocacy, philanthropy and volunteerism.

The star-studded and inspirational event will be held at Beverley Hills’ exclusive and iconic Mr Chow, which will be transformed into a “living set” as it provides a backdrop for a very special interactive Oscar viewing party. This unique event will bring together stars from film, TV, music, sports and fashion to celebrate the worlds of celebrity and charity. Special Ambassadors of Change who have used their celebrity to make a tangible difference in the world will be on hand to empower the audience to make a difference in their own lives.

The list of Ambassadors of Change is long and includes Laila Ali, Jessica Biel & Make The Difference Network, Cindy Crawford, John Paul DeJoria, Fran Drescher, Hilary Duff, David Foster, Leeza Gibbons, Melissa Gilbert, Erin Gray, Tony Hawk, Slash & Perla Hudson, Larry King, Ali Landry, Mario Lopez, Gloria Loring, Darryl McDaniels, Dr Phil & Robin McGraw, Olivia Newton-John, Holly Robinson-Peete & Rodney Peete, Jane Seymour, and Amy Smart.

“We call it a “party with a conscience” and it happens live on the internet (via EXTRAtv.com and Glam.com)," Leeza Gibbons told Look To The Stars. "Our correspondents are the stars themselves who have been inspired or moved to action by Hollywood’s example and leadership. We will create a “living set” inside Mr. Chow and cut live to our “Glam lounge” where lifestyle reporters will give viewers ways to take Hollywood’s example for confident building looks . We’ll also show how Hollywood beauties (ranging from classics like Audrey Hepburn to contemporaries like Angelina Jolie) have used their beauty to make a difference in the world. We will feature the ways in which Hollywood is leading the charge in the green movement and demonstrate how Hollywood’s huge heart has become a catalyst for good all over the world."

The event will even be carbon neutral, and a tree will be planted in honor of each attendee to erase their carbon footprint.

“Of course , we will have plenty of fun too!” said Leeza. “David Foster is our entertainment director and he is delivering A-list performers. We will have fans interact with our guests to get inspired and learn that together we are stronger than anything than threatens to tear us apart. Favorite Oscar moments, favorite Oscar hosts, and of course, plenty of fashion and flair! It’s all part of our Night To Make A Difference, which is a benefit for the [”Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation":http://www.looktothestars.org/charity/402-leezas-place] and Olivia Newton John’s Cancer and Wellness Centre in Australia."

The Night To Make A Difference takes place at Mr Chow, 344 N Camden Drive, on February 22. Dinner guests will be treated to a specially planned and prepared 10-course dinner featuring Mr. Chow’s world famous cuisine while watching the Oscars, and there will also be a special celebrity auction.

The event is expected to sell out. For more information and tickets, visit the official Night To Make A Difference website.

And be sure to stay tuned to Look To The Stars for more coverage of this exciting event.

Hollywood Squares For Charity This Weekend

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:32:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Fans of Hollywood Squares are in for a treat tomorrow when the classic game show is resurrected for a star-studded live charity event on Saturday, January 10.

The fourth annual Drive The Dream Gala for Childhelp USA will be held in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the Barrett Jackson Collector Car Event. Taking part in the fun – which will be hosted by original Hollywood Squares maestro Peter Marshall – are Jane Seymour, Cheryl Ladd, Connie Stevens, John O’Hurley, Kathie Lee Gifford, Norm Crosby, Catherine Oxenberg, Casper Van Dien, and actress Rhonda Fleming.

“I’m ready to roll,” Peter Marshall told azcentral.com. “We’ve never done anything like this before, but it’s going to be quite a production.”

Childhelp USA is dedicated to meeting the physical, emotional, educational and spiritual needs of abused, neglected and at-risk children, and focuses their efforts on advocacy, prevention, treatment and community outreach.

The gala starts at 6pm with a cocktail reception at WestWorld, 16601 North Pima Road. More information and tickets can be found at the event’s website.

Shaq O'Neil Records PSA For Childhelp USA

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

NBA great Shaquille O’Neal was in Phoenix, Arizona, this week to record a PSA – directed by Casper Van Dien – for Childhelp USA.

The Phoenix Suns center is the latest in a long line of celebrity supporters and ambassadors for the charity – dedicated to helping victims of child abuse and neglect – including Leeza Gibbons, Glenn Frey of the Eagles, Jane Seymour, Catherine Oxenberg, and John Stamos.

“Everyone said you just have to have Shaq,” charity founder Sara O’Meara told ABC15. “And so we said we’ll get him. These economic times are so bad and people who made pledges in the past and honored them are no longer able to honor them, so when people step up to the plate, like Shaq, it makes a great detail of different to a charity.”

In the PSA, O’Neil warns children to stay away from drugs and urges people to donate to the organization.

“Be strong, stand tall,” he said.

The PSA will be available on the Childhelp USA website soon.

Christopher Reeve Foundation To Make Magic Happen

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Making Magic Happen, the 4th Annual Los Angeles Gala for the Christopher Reeve Foundation, will take place next Tuesday, December 2.

The evening will honor actress Jane Seymour with the 2008 Philanthropy Award and former Indy Racing League Driver Sam Schmidt with the 2008 Visionary Leadership Award.

Christopher Reeve – who was paralyzed when he fell off a horse in 1995 – first met Jane Seymour when they co-starred in the 1980 fantasy romance, “Somewhere in Time.” They remained friends for over 20 years until his death in 2004. After his accident, Seymour was inspired by his extraordinary strength and will to live. His inspiration caused her to reach out to mentor young people with spinal cord injury.

Sam Schmidt was left paralyzed after a racing accident in 2000, but regained control of his life thanks to the support of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, an organization dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research, and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy.

Stars expected to attend the event include Marcia Cross, Jennie Garth, Kyle Maclachlan, Brandon Routh and many others.

The event will take place at the Beverly Hills Hilton, and tickets can be purchased through the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation website.

Flockhart, Ford to Attend Peace Over Violence Benefit

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:29:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

Calista Flockhart is set to host the 37th Annual Humanitarian Awards Dinner benefitting Peace Over Violence this Friday night, November 7th.

Flockhart, who is the National Spokesperson for the charity, will be joined by special guests Harrison Ford, Bo Derek, Jane Seymour, James Keach and many others. Honorary Co-Chairs for the event include Cheryl Burke and Eve Ensler.

The event, to be held at The Beverly Hills Hotel, begins at 6 P.M. with a Festive Cocktail Reception and a Silent Auction, followed at 7 by Dinner and the Awards Ceremony. Guests are asked to bring old wireless phones for the Verizon Wireless Hopeline program, which works to help curb domestic violence.

The awards recognize people who are working hard to build a world of healthy relationships, families and communities free from sexual, domestic and interpersonal violence.

This year’s Verizon Wireless Hopeline Corporate Award is going to Southern California Edison and Frank J. Quevedo, Vice President of Equal Opportunity, and Gloria Romero, the California State Senate Majority Leader, will be receiving the Public Service Award. The Leadership Award is going to Elise Buik, President and CEO of the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. Also to be recognized are Art Blair, Jennie Campbell, Jeri Elster, Lucinda Guarino, Robbie Rutstein, Christina Stevenson, Lora Luczywo, Rebecca Tomasini, Anabella Vara, Amara Wilson and Michelle Yee, who will be receiving the Empowerment Award as part of the Voices Over Violence:Survivors Who Speak Out initiative.

For more information on the event, and how you can help, visit PeaceOverViolence.org.

Get Ready For The Carousel Of Hope This Weekend

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The annual Carousel of Hope Gala will take place this weekend to raise money for the Barbara Davis Center for Childhood Diabetes.

Presented by Jay Leno, the gala will take place at the Beverly Hilton on Saturday, October 25, and will honor Denzel Washington for his charity work.

This year celebrates 30 years of helping children with diabetes through the Barbara Davis Center for Childhood Diabetes. Held every two years, this is the 18th Carousel of Hope. From its inception in 1978, the Ball has raised over $70 million.

The gala will feature performances from Josh Groban, the Jonas Brothers, Katharine McPhee and many more under the music direction of David Foster. The guest list is expected to be huge, with stars such as Tom Arnold, Melanie Griffith & Antonio Banderas, Halle Berry, Valerie Bertinelli, Lara Flynn Boyle, Bo Derek, Geena Davis, Daisy Fuentes, Selena Gomez, Kelsey Grammar, Tom Hanks, Taraji P. Henson, Anjelica Huston, Magic Johnson, Dr. Phil McGraw, Holly Robinson-Peete & Rodney Peete, Nicole Richie, Jane Seymour, Nicollette Sheridan, Forest Whitaker and James Woods all expected to attend. Clive Davis, Quincy Jones and Sidney Poitier will take part in Denzel Washington’s presentation.

The evening will feature a silent auction that includes an array of eco-friendly shirts donated by Guess and signed by Jason Bateman, Halle Berry, Robert DeNiro, Clint Eastwood, Will Ferrell, Harrison Ford, Cuba Gooding Jr., Whitney Houston, Scarlett Johansson, Jason Lee, Jared Leto, Bill Maher, Steve Martin, Jack Nicholson, Ray Romano, Maria Shriver & Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rod Stewart, Usher and many more. There will also be handbags signed by Joan Collins, Courteney Cox, Cindy Crawford, Dakota Fanning, Mariska Hargitay, Fergie, Susan Sarandon, Britney Spears and Racquel Welch, as well as items from Trace Adkins, P. Diddy, Marcia Cross, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Andie MacDowell, Alyssa Milano, Eva Longoria, Dolly Parton, Priscilla Presley, Denise Richards, Joel Madden, Sharon Stone, John Travolta, Carrie Underwood and many more.

Proceeds from the gala will benefit clinical care and research at the Barbara Davis Center for Childhood Diabetes (BDC) where over 5,000 children and young adults receive specialized care.

Celebrities Attend An Evening Of New Dreams

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The stars were out – clear and bright – on September 16 for An Evening of New Dreams, raising money for the Somaly Mam Foundation.

Susan Sarandon, Daryl Hannah, Petra Nemcova, Jane Seymour, Ashlee Simpson, Kevin Connolly, Kim Kardashian, Kevin Dillon, Seal, Emily Deschanel, Peter Wentz, and Ron Livingston were some of the stars who came together in Beverly Hills for the gala event which featured musical entertainment from Bonnie Raitt. Catered by Tommy Tang and held at the private residence of Foundation supporters Jeff and Mei Sze Greene, the evening raised awareness of global sex trafficking.

The Somaly Mam Foundation is dedicated to combating the global sex slave trade through the rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration of victims and through raising global awareness on the issue by funding organizations in various parts of the world that are combating sexual slavery in the field. Named after a survivor of the abhorrent problem, the foundation rescues girls from brothels and offers them shelter and safety, basic education, and reintegration into new communities.

Born in Cambodia, Somaly Mam was forced into a life of prostitution at a very young age, sold by her own grandfather for money. However, after witnessing the murder of a fellow prostitute at the hands of a pimp, Somaly broke free of the cycle and dedicated her life to rescuing girls living in similar circumstances. With Mam’s vision and leadership, the foundation – established in 2007 – strives to get to the root of human trafficking. Their global vision of ending the sex trafficking trade will allow their activities currently in the United States and South East Asia to expand to other countries around the world.

For more information about the Somaly Mam Foundation and how to support their efforts, visit www.somaly.org.

Idol And Dancing With The Stars Auctions For Great Causes

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:59:51 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

What’s better than an auction featuring items from your favorite television show? An auction featuring items from two of your favorite television shows! Fans of American Idol and Dancing With The Stars will be jumping up and down with excitement when they see what’s on offer over at www.clothesoffourback.org this week, with a mouthwatering assortment of garments and other surprises up for grabs.

The auction presents a unique opportunity for all those people who have watched Dancing With The Stars and said to themselves “I wouldn’t want to be in their shoes.” A host of the best celebrity dancers from the show are selling their fancy footwear for charity, and are inviting people to step up and make a bid. Melanie Brown, Vivica Fox, Julianne Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, Samantha Harris, Marissa Jaret Winokur, Jane Seymour, and Lisa Rima are all putting their best foot forward and donating shoes to the auction, and the highest bidders will also receive a selection of products from Dr Scholl. Proceeds will go to a selection of charities chosen by the stars.

Anybody interested in the auction should hot-foot it over there soon – the auction ends on May 7.

Following hot on the heels of the shoe auction is a sale from American Idol’s Kimberley Locke. The Season 2 finalist is auctioning the dress she wore when she performed her song “Fall” on the show, and it just happens that the garment was designed by Project Runway’s Season 4 winner, Christian Siriano. The auction ends on April 18, and proceeds will benefit Camp Heartland.

And just in case you want to put your feet up after all of your hard bidding, why not check out the Modern Studio Furnishings celebrity signed couch that is also on offer over at Clothes Off Our Back. A colossal crowd of celebrities have autographed the sofa, used at last year’s BET Awards, including Patti La Belle, Gladys Knight, Jennifer Hudson, Jordin Sparks, Robin Thicke, Akon, Stevie Wonder, Vanessa Williams, and many more. Proceeds from the auction – which ends April 18 – will go to the BET Foundation.

What a pity it is only signatures on the couch… it would make for a cosy and interesting evening squeezed up to all those celebrities!

Red Cross Announces The 2008 Celebrity Cabinet

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 11:36:18 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The American Red Cross unveiled their 7th annual National Celebrity Cabinet yesterday, February 28, with 15 new members from movies, sports, and television.

Skateboard legend Tony Hawk will join former Beverly Hills 90210 and Dancing With The Stars alum Jennie Garth, Heroes’ Masi Oka, Gossip Girl’s Penn Badgley, House M.D.’s Lisa Edelstein and Kal Penn, Ugly Betty’s Ana Ortiz, Grey’s Anatomy’s Sara Ramirez, Scrubs’ Judy Reyes, Everyone Loves Raymond’s Patricia Heaton, Hairspray’s Brittany Snow, two-time NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, New York Yankee Robinson Cano, NFL star Matt Leinart, and Life Coach Iyanla Vazant in the 2008 Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet, part of a mobilizing force to urge people to perform extraordinary life-saving acts in dire circumstances through the assistance of the Red Cross.

“I am extremely honored to participate in the Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet, especially at a time when we have the ability to do so much for people around the world who have endured such tragedies,” said new member Jennie Garth. “The Red Cross brings help and hope to those in need and has done tremendous good for so many different people on a global level. I believe this is a time when we can educate others and the Red Cross allows for the opportunity for each individual to contribute to the effort. I am grateful that I am able be part of this amazing organization.”

The 47 members of the 2008 National Celebrity Cabinet will be “on-call” to donate their time, skills, passion, and energy to help the Red Cross highlight their important initiatives and response efforts. It will be chaired once again by Sherry Lansing, former CEO of Paramount Pictures and member of the Red Cross Board of Govenors.

“This is my sixth year serving as chair for the Celebrity Cabinet,” she said. “It’s an honor to be a part of such a meaningful cause with such talented people.”

The Red Cross has benefited from the involvement of public figures and celebrities since World War I, and over the years actors and artists have played an important role in raising public awareness of Red Cross services nationwide. Cabinet members pledge their support for a one year term, although many members of the current National Celebrity Cabinet, including Heidi Klum and Leeza Gibbons, have been involved for over five years.

“The Red Cross is a volunteer driven organization that provides humanitarian help to those in need,” said Klum. “It is an honor for me to participate in their celebrity cabinet and encourage all individuals to become involved with their local Red Cross.”

Members of the 2008 National Celebrity Cabinet will be involved in one of the country’s largest volunteer networks and will promote awareness of Red Cross services by participating in public service advertisements, as well as donating their time, money and blood, aiding in disaster relief, and lending a helping hand to those in need. Returning members include Jackie Chan, Sara Evans (who recently organized an auction as part of her involvement), Jamie Lee Curtis, Patti LaBelle, Jimmy Smits, Marlee Matlin, Nancy O’Dell, Jane Seymour, Peyton Manning, Jimmie Johnson, Rascal Flatts, Julianne Moore, George Foreman, Marcia Gay Harden, Elisabeth Rohm, Eli Manning, Daddy Yankee, Chayanne, Aisha Tyler, Pierce Brosnan, Amy Grant, Miley Ray Cyrus, Kristen Bell, Pat Green, Dwayne Johnson (AKA The Rock), Dr. Phil McGraw, Raven Symone, Niki Taylor, Burney Lamar, and Bradley Whitford.

The American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet was developed in 2002 as part of the Entertainment Outreach Program.

Jackie Chan Thanks Red Cross

Sat, 18 Mar 2006 18:38:19 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

As a child, Jackie Chan and his schoolmates were given assistance by a Red Cross worker. Jackie is now doing his best to say thank you by raising awareness of the charity’s cause.

Chan is one of the new members of the 2006 American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet. Alongside celebrities such as Pierce Brosnan, Jamie Lee Curtis and Jane Seymour, he will help the charity by making public service announcements, conducting media interviews, donating time, money and blood, visiting disaster sites and lending a hand to those in need.

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